GIFFORD High School in Bulawayo has taken a bold stand against bullying, violence and substance abuse following the successful launch of the “Not In My School” campaign, an initiative aimed at restoring discipline and promoting peace among learners.
The campaign, first introduced at district level, is now being rolled out in schools as part of efforts to create safe and conducive learning environments where learners can thrive without fear of abuse, intimidation or discrimination.
Learners, teachers and stakeholders gathered for the launch, which also included a peace march through the streets of Bulawayo to raise awareness against bullying and violence.
Speaking during the event, Gifford High School headmistress Bongai Dewa said the campaign was about transforming the school culture and encouraging learners to embrace peace both in and outside the classroom.
“We want our learners to live peacefully at school, at home and within the community,” she said.
“A child who is at peace is able to focus better in class and perform well academically.”
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She described the campaign as the beginning of a new chapter for the school.
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for Gifford High School.
“We walked the streets of Bulawayo for a good cause, sending a clear message that bullying, violence, and misconduct have no place in our school.”
Dewa urged both learners and teachers to treat each other with respect, saying positive communication is key to building trust and unity within the school community.
“As the Gifford family, we are bound by three important values, love, peace and unity. Respect must begin with us all,” she added while unveiling the school’s anti-bullying pledge.
A teacher, Irene Mathe, said the school hopes the campaign will help change the negative image that has often been associated with some learners from the institution.
“Some of our boys have previously been involved in fights in the city centre, and unfortunately, the school became known for the wrong reasons,” Mathe said.
“We are hopeful that after this campaign, people will begin to see positive change.”
She also called on parents to work closely with the school in promoting discipline and positive behaviour among learners.
National Aids Council representative Thembinkosi Ndlovu described the campaign as timely, noting that schools continue to face growing challenges such as bullying, gender-based violence, substance abuse, child marriages, HIV and sexually transmitted infections.
“These issues not only threaten learners’ wellbeing but also interfere with their right to quality education,” she said.
She applauded the involvement of learners in the campaign, saying engaging young people directly was one of the most effective ways of fighting violence and drug abuse in schools.
Social worker Nicola Wathumbwa, from Ingutsheni Central Hospital, warned that bullying has serious effects on mental health and encouraged victims to seek help.
“Bullying can affect a person emotionally and psychologically,” she said.
“Learners must speak out and seek support from teachers, parents or mental health professionals whenever they face abuse.”
A police officer, Assistant Inspector Sithule Sengwe, also challenged learners to stay away from drugs and violence, reminding them that they were future leaders whose decisions today would shape their tomorrow.
“When I look at you, I see future presidents, doctors, teachers, and leaders,” Sengwe said.
“Avoid bullying and substance abuse because they can leave lasting damage on your lives.”
The school hopes the initiative will lead to a reduction in bullying cases, improved relationships among learners, increased confidence in reporting abuse and stronger co-operation between schools and parents.
With banners raised high and voices united against bullying, Gifford High School’s “Not In My School” campaign ended with renewed hope that discipline, peace and positive behaviour will define the school’s future.